A couple of nights ago we set up the Christmas tree, turned on our favorite Christmas tunes, and watched the kids decorate the tree.Watching them decorate the tree reminded me of how my dad would always get a little teary as he lovingly watched my brother and sister and I decorate the tree.
Since then I have been reflecting on Christmases past and remembering the ones that have been extra special and meant the most in my life.
The picture above is of Devon and I at Temple Square, in Salt Lake, seven years ago. I was approximately 22 (or so) weeks pregnant with our daughter Taylor.
Being pregnant at Christmastime, to me, is such a magical experience. It made the whole nativity story more emotional and meaningful to me. I can't imagine riding on a donkey pregnant, sleeping in a barn pregnant, or delivering a baby in a barn among farm animals...amazing!
The gift of life is a miracle in itself! Now, seven years later, I feel so blessed to have three little ones of my own--they are so precious! Yes, they all have their quirks, at times, but every time I look at their tiny hands, sweet faces, and interact with their fun personalities, I am reminded, especially at Christmastime, how blessed I am!
17 comments:
Me too! This is a sweet post. Yes, we all have our little quirks! Aren't you glad we can look past all those trivial little things and love each other for who we are?! Thank you for the reminder to count my blessings this Christmastime.
A couple of years ago when Andy was a newborn around Christmas, it made the whole nativity story more powerful. I couldn't have imagined having him in a barn and laying him on the hay with animals. It is so sweet that Jesus came that way and taught us that material stuff doesn't matter that much. Your kids are so darling. I can't imagine that their quirks are that bad.
I can't imagine you riding a donkey or sleeping in a barn pregnant, either.
Merry Christmas!
I was almost eight months pregnant with McKay over Christmas 11 years ago. I remember thinking the exact same things. Feeling so weary, tired, and heavy. Then imagining doing all that Mary did feeling the same way. What a beautiful reminder. I had forgotten all about that...
Christmas time is the best time.
So true. Last year was extra special for Scott and me as we held a small and pure newborn in our arms during Christmas.
The picture is beautiful!
Aw, what a sweet post:) Your dad is such a great guy. I remember your Christmas Tree in West Valley had those really cool candle lights that bubbled, I LOVED 'em and wished we had some at my house, LOL!
I AGREE!! I love watching the kids get so EXCITED about christmas and why we celebrate it, I think Christmas is so much more fun now that I have kids of my own. Thanks for the reminder of how blessed we are. I am glad that I was able to have all my babies in a clean and safe hospital.
Christmas brings out the best in people, I love it. Kids are such a joy because they bring the Christmas spirit to life!
My oldest was born 2 and 1/2 weeks after Christmas and I remember going to Temple Square and waddling around like a duck and wondering the same thing. How could you ride a donkey? And deliver in a barn. It's really humbling. Thank you for the sweet sentiments....
Thinking about Mary actually being PREGNANT before the baby Jesus was born puts things in a way different perspective! Was she emotional? Was she crying? Was she having major contractions while riding the donkey? Geesh! I love your cute babies, too!
Sweet post...our tree has become such a hassle almost getting up. My husband is not the type to jump up and help with it - he gets it down from the attic and the kids and I jam to Christmas music while we put it up...your way sounds so much better:) I love Christmas when I'm preggers cause I don't have to feel too guilty when I overindulge in the treats!!...
When Dan and I were a lot younger we had Meg she was just a baby and they asked us to play Mary and Joseph in our ward christmas play...Meg was baby Jesus:) I remember being completely overcome with gratitude and compassion for what Mary must have felt during that time in her life. We wrapped Meg in swaddling clothes and laid her down in their makeshift manger and she fell asleep - I tried super hard to hold it together but it was one of the most touching experiences I've ever had. Christmas and families are the best!
Ah, what a sweet picture of you and your hubby and such a neat little reminder. I can not imagine what Mary went through. What a wonderful way to help us all remember! ♥
I also experienced that with my pregnancy with Gavin since he was born right after Christmas. It is amazing what Mary did. THat's a really neat picture of you guys!
I completely agree...being great with child at the holidays really is so magical. Every birth is miraculous in its own way and I cannot even comprehend the emotions that Mary must have had. I think you guys have been gone long enough now. Can you come home?
What a sweet post! Even more special is having a newborn at Christmas!
Having children does give you a greater appreciation for Mary and what she went through. I loved your post! I thought the picture was from this year - wow! You both haven't aged at all.
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